Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle (1950s) Detroit, 1oz Black / White / Nickel fishing spoon #9931

Diagonal black and white striping covers the convex side of this 3 1/2" (9 cm) spoon, providing a high-contrast profile against the water. Tipping the scales at 1oz (28g), the heavy metal body utilizes the signature concave, oblong shape Eppinger perfected in Detroit to generate a distinct wobbling action and flutter during a slow retrieve. On the reverse, the nickel finish is clearly stamped with "DARDEVLE" DETROIT U.S.A., a mark used prior to the company's 1959 relocation. This specific specimen, product code 9931, is in 4/5 condition, showing minor paint chips along the perimeter and light surface marks on the metal. It is rigged with a large, darkened treble hook and a robust split ring. For the angler, the nickel back offers a natural flash in clear water, while the dark stripes help the lure stand out when visibility is low. This mid-century Michigan-made lure represents a period when Lou Eppinger’s designs became standard equipment in aviation survival kits and civilian tackle boxes alike.